Ewan nodded, a plan forming. He took up his quill and began to draft a response to be included in the morning edition of the Chronicle. When he was done, he shared it with Duncan and his father. They returned it to him, and he gave it to Mr. Herbert.
“To the Starling with secrets aplenty,
What game do you play with whispers so many?
The Falcon watches with keenest of eyes,
Awaiting the moment when surprise flies.
At the gala, amidst the grand scene,
Will the Starling reveal what her murmurs mean?”
“I would appreciate it if you had this in the morning paper.”
Mr. Herbert took the new article, a knowing smile on his face as he left to prepare it for publication.
“Do you want to tell me what that is all about?” his father asked.
“Have I told you, Father, that I’m married to a very clever woman?” Ewan and Duncan exchanged a look of shared conspiracy, united once more in their quest.
*
Juliet sat atthe table with her breakfast, reading the morning edition of the London Chronicle. Their gossip had been posted in last night’s edition, and now they were eager to see if there was any mention of her rumors.
“What?” Tea splashed over her teacup that almost fell from her hand.
Aunt Geraldine lifted her head.
Juliet was still staring at the paper. “Have you seen the paper?”
“Are you speaking of the very well-written poem your husband had published just for you? If that’s what you’re referencing, then yes.” Aunt Geraldine stopped putting raspberry jam on her toast and glanced across the table at Juliet. “I did.” She tried not to smile and returned to her toast. “Well written and definitely romantic,” she said, biting into her toast.
Juliet re-read the poem. She could almost see his smile and mischievous eyes. “Yes. It is romantic.”
Chapter Thirty-One
May 1, 1820
It was earlyafternoon. Juliet sat in her bedroom window seat, staring out at the garden. Over the days, whispers through London’s high society swirled around Juliet like leaves in an autumn wind. Each conversation she overheard was filled with speculation, each theory more elaborate than the last. The mysterious event she had hinted at had taken on a life of its own, and thetonbuzzed with anticipation.
The world around her was alive with speculation and anticipation, yet she stood apart, a solitary figure on the edge of the excitement she had herself orchestrated. It was as if she were observing the whirlwind from a distance, untouched by the fervor that she had ignited.
The anticipation for the Aurington Gala had woven itself into the very fabric of London’s high society, and Juliet could feel its pulse in every corner of the city. The rumors she had set in motion had done their work well, stirring curiosity and excitement in equal measure. Yet, despite the success of her plan, Juliet had kept her distance from Ewan and Duncan, her heart torn between the desire for reconciliation and the fear of rejection.
“There you are.” Aunt Geraldine crossed the room and sat beside her. “You’ve created quite the spectacle for tonight. Theentire city is eager to witness what happens. You’ll stand and see what you created.”
“Will Ewan want to be with me?” Juliet’s concerns tumbled out of her mouth as she clutched her aunt’s hand. “The thought of facing Ewan’s coldness, or Duncan’s… I’m not sure I can bear it.”
“You belong there as much as anyone, Juliet.” Aunt Geraldine’s response was a comforting embrace. “You have an invitation, and you won’t be alone.”
“Lady Glenraven, your presence has been specifically requested.” Mrs. Murthy nodded, reminded her. “And there’s a special invitation for the card game. It’s clear you’re expected at Aurington Park.”
Juliet allowed a smile to break through her doubts. “I hadn’t considered it quite like that.”
Aunt Geraldine handed her a note, its seal bearing the Aurington crest. “There’s more reason for you to attend.” She gestured for Juliet to read it.
“Lady Aurington requests our presence this afternoon before the gala begins. There will be room for us to prepare for the evening.” She handed the note back. “It will provide an opportunity to come to an understanding with Ewan. This must be fate playing games with me.”
